Girl in Focus: Ella Jotie

We’re well into the Holiday Season and are very excited to introduce our new ‘Girl in Focus’, Ella Jotie. Athletic, fashionable and fun … you will see why we chose Ms. Sports Chic to be our ‘Girl in Focus’ for December 2015 to February 2016.

CeeCee: What do you do for work?

Ella: I am the Co-Founder and Creator of Barre Fitness, Canada’s original ballet barre

workout. Barre Fitness gets you a dancer’s body … without the dance! It’s an effective workout that combines the best elements of ballet barre, Pilates, sports conditioning and stretching … plus, it is guaranteed to tighten and tone your body. We currently have studios in Yaletown,North Vancouver … with a new studio opening in Port Moody in 2016!

CeeCee: That’s fantastic! I’m going to have to try that out when your Port Moody studio opens. So, what is the best part of your job?

Ella: The best part of my job is that it never feels like work. I’m blessed to truly love what I do, and the people that I do it with. Our clients inspire me daily and my team is the BEST … they are like family to me.

CeeCee: That’s true, not many can say they love what they do. What do you think your biggest strength is?

Ella: I enjoy being a positive role model, leading and motivating people to reach their goals in both fitness and in life. But I think my biggest strength is my ability to surround myself with amazing people, keep steadfast to my core values and live a positive life.

CeeCee: What are your goals for 2016?

Ella: My goal for 2016 is to continue to build the Barre Fitness community. We are incredibly excited about our 2016 new studio openings, including our latest addition, Barre Fitness Port Moody.

CeeCee: With a successful booming business, what’s your next big life goal?

Ella: To create the “Raise the Barre Foundation”, which would fulfill my life long personal dream of becoming a philanthropist.

CeeCee: Wow … that’s a beautiful goal you have. With your determination, I’m sure that you will be able to reach that goal one day. What is the best advice you’re ever received?

Ella: There is no such thing as sheer luck. Luck, is when preparation meets opportunity. Work hard, always be prepared and you’ll be ready when opportunity comes knocking … and it will!

CeeCee: What is the vice you’ll never give up?

Ella: Wine.

CeeCee: Haha … that’s mine as well. What’s your guilty pleasure?

Ella: Nashville – the TV show … it’s so bad, it’s good!

CeeCee: I’ve never watched that show before. Maybe I need to tune in. Do you have a secret talent?

Ella: Not really a secret, but I’m also a dancer/choreographer and actor.

CeeCee: That make sense now. You’re so comfortable in front of the camera! How would you describe your style?

Ella: I was once described as a hippie, rocker, gypsy … but now I’d say my style is casual, eclectic and chic.

CeeCee: I love how one’s style can change over time. So, who is your style icon?

Ella: Alexander McQueen because he was edgy and dramatic, yet playful and fun. Also, Audrey Hepburn who is just a classic beauty. She said, “True beauty in a woman is reflected in her soul. It’s the caring that she lovingly gives, the passion that she shows and the beauty of a woman only grows with passing years.” The two couldn’t be more opposite, but like I said…. I’m eclectic!

CeeCee: Good choices. I love McQueen as well … he is a fashion genius! Which star’s signature look has inspired yours?

Ella: Kate Hudson, she always knows when to class it up and when to keep it cool and casual. She doesn’t take herself too seriously, and I find that inspiring. Plus she just launched a fabulous new active wear line!

CeeCee: What’s your season must-have item?

Ella: My leather moto jacket.

CeeCee: A leather jacket can go with almost any outfit. I’m in a search for one … so let me know if you see one around that suits me. Who are your favourite Coquitlam Centre retailers?

Ella: Aritzia, Plenty, Lululemon and Sephora

CeeCee: And what are your go-to accessories?

Ella: I love a good long necklace and classic purse.

CeeCee: What would you never wear?

Ella: I never say never … but I wouldn’t wear the original UGG boots outside of my home.

CeeCee: What’s the best fashion trend of all time?

Ella: The LBD! Sophisticated, simple and effortless, nothing beats putting on a little black dress. I like to dress it down with sneakers, but if I’m headed to a show then heels or booties.

CeeCee: What is the best fashion secret you’ve ever learned?

Ella: Whatever you choose to wear, wear it with confidence.

CeeCee: Wise words. If you had to wear one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?